Reflecting on SHARE Charlotte: From “The Way” to “The We”
We attended SHARE Charlotte’s Doing Good is Good For Business event this past week, and I walked away not only feeling inspired but thinking a bit differently. A huge thank you to Melissa Hovey for her efforts in putting together such a meaningful program.
Here are a few key takeaways that really resonated as we grow Root + Rigor:
1. Intentionality Over Randomness
At first glance, one might assume we attended primarily for relationship-building. However, there is so much to learn as we build the foundation for R+R. It became clear that Rachel and I need to define our "giving pillars." The Charlotte community is incredibly important to us, and we want a strategy that moves beyond random acts of service. By being intentional with our time and dollars, we can ensure we’re making a genuine, measurable impact.
2. Combating the "Epidemic of Solitude"
Davida Rivens mentioned the "epidemic of solitude" - a phrase that really stuck with me. She spoke about how often people are working in isolation rather than together. This struck a chord because, with R+R, we were intentional about creating an agency where we collaborate face-to-face. We believe it’s the people and the depth of those relationships that leads to more powerful work.
3. The Shift to "The Charlotte We"
The panel (shout-out to Carrie Reeder, Davida Rivens, Melissa Buchanan, and Blair Stanford) discussed the evolution from the "Charlotte Way" to the "Charlotte We." The core idea is simple but profound: How can we, as Charlotteans, join forces to drive the greater good? There are so many people here doing amazing things; imagine the collective impact if we all truly aligned. That "We" is an exciting movement to be part of, and Root + Rigor wants a seat at the table in helping define the future of our city. After all, at the end of the day, our success is only as big as the community's success around us.
4. The Data (and the Heart) of Giving
The numbers don’t lie. Statistics like "over 93% of employees who volunteer report higher levels of engagement with their company" are too significant to ignore. Beyond the data, one attendee shared a sentiment that really touched me:
"I was 'volunteering' my time, but actually, I was the one receiving the gift."
When you flip the script like that and realize the emotional value volunteering provides - the perspective shifts, new relationships, personal growth, skill development and the community connection - it becomes clear that the impact on the heart and mind is just as imperative as the work itself.
Thanks for an awesome event, SHARE CLT!